I am onboarding a new client and as part of this process, I learn as much as I can about the organization to get an idea of what types of program narratives I can craft to qualify for more grants.
Many grant writers I speak to research and write grants for one or two areas within an organization.
It is not uncommon for me to write grants for 5-10 different programs within the organization.
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For example, I write grants for my son’s Montessori school. On the surface, it seems that I would be writing education grants. I have actually never written a grant for them for general education.
But I have written grants for the following programs:
Music Program: The school offers music education, but the Montessori method of introducing and encouraging music is specific. Various instruments are presented at different ages, so I wrote a program narrative for the instruments and instructor hours. Music grants abound so this is a great way to apply for more focused grants with less competition.
Seed to Table Program: Each classroom has a kitchen and the school grounds have garden boxes. This is the perfect opportunity to combine the two into a Seed to Table program for all age levels. I wrote and was awarded a grant for $10,000 for this program. We can now revamp the garden, add more boxes, purchase plants and seeds, create an herb garden, and install a sun shade. The older children will develop recipes that use the ingredients from the garden. I have already applied for two more grants for this program.
Rescued Animals: The school has a donkey, a goat, two ducks and two sheep that are all rescued from less than ideal situations. Students care for them, feed them, and observe them. I plan to write a few grants this year for their food and to rebuild their shelters.
Some other ideas for fleshing out programs is to look at the demographics of those served. Ask these questions about the organization:
- Do they serve veterans in any capacity?
- Do they serve individuals with disabilities in any capacity?
- Are there any ancillary activities that may qualify for grant funding?
The programs don’t have to be a core focus or a main part of the mission- the organization just has to meet the criteria and actually serve the stated individuals.
One of my clients provides athletic opportunities for underfunded inner city schools. I noticed that there are several big grants for girls’ athletics so, on paper, I created a program that addressed the girls served. We won a few grants specific to the program for girls.
Think outside of the primary mission and identify additional ways to qualify for grants based on the demographics of the people you already serve.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants
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